CAR SERVICING HOW TO?

[AshVanguard]

Hi there
me and my friend want to service our own cars, it be a good way to save money and learn more about your dearly beloved wheels, but we don't really know how...
are there any how to videos etc on here? things like what parts you need and where it is best to get them from (car parts center/ebay?)
both are cars are fairly small (a 99 punto and a 01 Yaris T-sport)
thanks muchly
Ash

[Matt UK]

Try:

A Haynes manual to get the idea of what you doing
Parts from your local car factors or Halfords if you really need to for tools etc
Ask questions on car forums
Ask google videos, sometimes there are useful demos.

[marshalla]

Haynes manuals.
Local motor factors (see Yellow pages).

Swear box is always handy too - pays for the next job.

[AshVanguard]

hahaha, i got a feeling there will be much swearing indeed, it took us an hour to fit a side light in my car last month
so parts wise its new oil, new air filter...?

[Mike 820]

Agreed with the above.
The first thing I do upon getting a new car is buy the Haynes for it and see whats available online via forums and such.

[soda]

Marque specific forums usually have useful guides as stickys.

Basic servicing is simple enough, change oil and filters.

Other things like brakes/suspension are straightforward enough, Haynes manual will be your friend.

[The Nur]

Your going to need:-

• a socket set for spark plugs and sump (may need a sump removal tool thing)
• a screwdriver for hammering through the oil filter. You can buy these strappy things that go around the filter and make it easier to remove but that is just extra expense
• something to catch the oil in. Very important, can stop everything if you forget this
• HT leads if they haven't been changed in a while

Apologies if that seems a little patronising, that is sincerely not my intention but you would be amazed at the things I've forgotten over the years. Just trying to help you from making the same mistakes.

[AshVanguard]

excellent!
knew you chaps would be useful
is there any point changing the pollen filter as i don't have hayfever and rarely use the a/c

[richardxjr]

AshVanguard said:

excellent!
knew you chaps would be useful
is there any point changing the pollen filter as i don't have hayfever and rarely use the a/c

Yes, they can clog up = misty inside of windows and a fusty smell


ETA; People rave on about half price Halfords Pro tools, and rightly so, but I have this socket set which has earnt it's measly cost several times over.
Trolley Jack & axle stands cheap from the same place too.

Edited by richardxjr on Monday 21st February 16:46

[marshalla]

AshVanguard said:

excellent!
knew you chaps would be useful
is there any point changing the pollen filter as i don't have hayfever and rarely use the a/c

Even if you don't need the a/c you should make a point of running it for about 10 mins. at least once a week to keep the filters & airways clear, and ensure that the lubricating oil gets to all the components and seals. If you don't, things will a) develop mold, b) seize up/dry out and let the gas escape.

[judas]

Check your local colleges and see if any are doing car maintenance courses. Well worth doing